Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
